Seven Tips from Dentists To Get A Brighter, Whiter and Healthier Smile

It is no surprise that close-to-perfect teeth can make you appear more attractive and younger. In fact, according to a survey done at the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, 96 percent of respondents’ belief an appealing smile is more attractive.

However, getting that perfect smile goes beyond the way you look. The health of your teeth and gums affects your body and mind’s overall health. Our experts have created a list of seven simple, yet effective that will not only help you achieve a great smile, but will also make strides in improving the health of the rest of your body too.

Brush your Teeth Regularly

Brushing your teeth is the most important part of dental care. When you brush your teeth, you remove food particles that bacteria feed on. Toothpaste containing fluoride helps strengthen teeth provided that you brush for at least 2 minutes each time.

Don’t Forget to Floss

Don’t Skip Your Dental Check Up

Visit your dentist every six months. Your dentist will be able to detect problems with your gums and teeth that are more easily treated when caught early. Consider visiting your dentist every four months if you are prone to gum disease and cavities. If you have other health issues that may increase your risk of developing dental problems ( such as chemotherapy, diabetes or a depressed immune system from HIV or cancer), speak to your dentist about how often you should come in for check ups. Pregnant women, anyone undergoing chemotherapy and people with diabetes should consider a special dental care regimen as certain medications may dry out the mouth as well as affect the gums.

Maintain a Healthy Diet

Calcium rich foods such as kale and sardines helps maintain strong bones and teeth, and the Vitamin C in citrus food promotes gum health. On the hand, among the foods not to eat, include sticky food that may stick to the crevices of your teeth such as candy. Bacteria feed off the sugar and releases and release cavity causing acids.

Don’t use Smokeless Tobacco or Smoke Cigarettes

Studies indicate that people who smoke are four times more likely than non-smokers to develop gum disease. Smokeless tobacco puts a person at higher risk for cancers, including tongue, cheeks, lips and gums. Furthermore, tobacco products contribute to bad breath or halitosis.

Whiten Your Teeth

Although the benefits of teeth whitening are solely cosmetic, whitening your teeth is a very safe procedure provided the products are used according to the directions and under the supervision of your dentist.

Think About Cosmetic Procedures

One of the first things a person remembers about you is your smile. Over the past decade, cosmetic dentistry is becoming more accessible making it possible to fix most dental problems. Orthodontics for straightening teeth and veneers for that improve the appearance of teeth are only two of the many cosmetic dentistry options available.

Dr. Evelina Tolchinsky, DDS and Dr. Trogan, DDS at Signature Smile General and Cosmetic Dentistry will be happy to provide more tips about achieving that perfect smile during your next visit. Our dentists have served the residents of Brooklyn Heights, Fort Greene, Carroll Gardens, Cobble Hill, Dumbo, and all of our other surrounding communities for years.

Our offices are located in the heart of beautiful Brooklyn Heights at 100 Pineapple Walk, Brooklyn, NY 11201